How do I collect a water sample?

Take the sample from a cold water tap. Use a tap without a screen or remove the screen before you collect the sample.

Let the cold water run constantly for at least 2 minutes before you collect the sample.

Hold the bottle near the base of the tap to get the sample. Fill it past the 200 mL mark (to the shoulder of the bottle).
Do not overfill the bottle.

Put the cap on the bottle
right away. Make sure the cap is secure, but do not overtighten it.

Put the identification label from the requisition form on the bottle.

Fill out the requisition and include the information below. If you miss anything on the requisition, your sample might not be processed.

name and daytime phone number

mailing address and postal code

collection site (e.g., kitchen sink)

legal land description and/or civic address

date and time sample was collected

name of person who collected the sample

On the requisition for​m, write down if this is a re-sample. You also need to fill out section A (Drinking Water) and add any comments or special requests at the bottom of the requisition.

Put the sample and requisition form in the plastic bag that came with the sample bottle.

Put the sample in a cooler filled with ice packs and bring it to a drop-off location near you
right away.

The sample needs to be as fresh as possible. It takes time to get the sample from the drop off location to the lab. Collect the sample just before you leave for the drop off location. This is important because if the sample arrives at the lab more than 24 hours after it’s collected, it will
not be processed.

Check here​ to see where and when you can drop off the sample in the town or city near​est you.

How do I find out the results?

All results are mailed to the address you gave on the requisition form. If your results show bacteria, a Public Health Inspector will try to call you. Make sure your daytime phone number on the requisition is the best one to reach you at.

This material is for information purposes only. It should not be used in place of medical advice, instruction, or treatment. If you have questions, talk with your doctor or appropriate healthcare provider. This information may be printed and distributed without permission for non-profit, education purposes. The content on this page may not be changed without consent of the author. Contact feedback@myhealth.alberta.ca.